The Upton Renaissance: A Block Prototype for Urban Revitalization

Abstract

Housing has been a persistent issue in America since pre-WWII, and public housing remains an unsolved challenge. Nearly a century after the New Deal, efforts to address housing shortages, density, and poverty through trial and error have failed to alleviate many Americans' social inequalities and poor living conditions.

This thesis examines the shortcomings of public housing in America by analyzing global housing projects. While public housing is a pressing issue in cities like Baltimore and across the East Coast, it remains a worldwide challenge. However, America's approach to addressing fair housing has varied and has been problematic for residents, policymakers, planners, designers, and government entities. This thesis will also propose a new prototype, using an interdisciplinary framework to improve the mental and physical well-being of low-income communities while reducing displacement in marginalized neighborhoods.

The proposed prototype will challenge and seek a better model for public and profoundly affordable housing that extends beyond housing to include amenities and service buildings that empower residents. It is crucial to recognize that housing alone is insufficient to address the broader social and economic challenges experienced. However, this model offers hope, ensuring that residents' environments meet their needs and improve their quality of life despite financial constraints.